Reviving a Landmark: The Monumental Restoration of the Tyne Bridge

The Tyne Bridge, a historic symbol of Newcastle’s industrial heritage and architectural brilliance, is undergoing its most significant restoration project since its inauguration in 1928. This ambitious initiative, commissioned by Newcastle and Gateshead Councils, promises to preserve the iconic structure for future generations while incorporating cutting-edge engineering solutions.

A Restoration of Historic Proportions

At the heart of this restoration, led by principal contractor Esh Construction and specialist scaffolding firm Infrastructure Site Services Ltd (ISS), lies a colossal scaffolding operation. Over 13,000 tonnes of scaffolding, spanning an extraordinary 181 miles of tubes, will envelop the bridge in phases. This massive effort includes a 100-meter-long underdeck scaffold stretching 84 feet above the River Tyne, providing safe access for inspections and repairs. The phased approach ensures minimal disruption to the bridge’s functionality as the main artery in and out of Newcastle. Critical to this success is the innovative design by scaffolding consultancy 48.3, which incorporates advanced engineering techniques to balance accessibility, safety, and structural integrity. Ladder beams, Apollo X-Beams, and unique tie systems direct scaffold loads into the bridge’s arches, protecting the historical structure while facilitating extensive maintenance work. Mark Gilroy, Engineering Manager at 48.3, highlighted the collaboration behind the project: “Our scaffolding design ensures seamless access for repairs while maintaining the bridge’s functionality. The balance of engineering ingenuity and practical application has been integral to the project’s success.”

A Journey Through Restoration

The restoration involves far more than scaffolding. Inside the bridge’s deck void, 36 steel hangers that support the carriageway are being strengthened, alongside extensive repairs to steel, concrete, stonework, and drainage systems. Protective sheeting encases the scaffolding to contain grit blasting and painting operations, minimising environmental impact and ensuring worker safety. A safety boat stationed beneath the bridge underscores the project’s unwavering commitment to safety. One of the project’s crowning achievements will be a fresh coat of paint in the historic ‘Hollybush’ shade, selected to mirror the bridge’s original colour. This advanced paint system promises to shield the structure for up to 30 years from the harsh conditions of the Tyne Valley gorge. Gareth Dawson, Project Manager at Esh Construction, emphasised the scale and significance of the work: “This restoration is far more than ‘just a lick of paint.’ It represents a meticulous effort to preserve and modernise one of the North East’s most treasured landmarks.”

Overcoming Challenges with Innovation

Maintaining traffic flow on this vital link presented one of the greatest challenges. The innovative use of protection decks and special access beams enabled scaffolding erection with minimal road closures, showcasing the team’s ingenuity in balancing construction demands with city life’s uninterrupted rhythm. Steve Benton, Principal Engineer at 48.3, explained the intricate planning involved: “Our scaffold system not only provides secure platforms for maintenance but also ensures the bridge remains open without overloading the structure. This delicate balance has been crucial to the project’s ongoing success.”

A Legacy for Future Generations

As the project progresses, milestones such as the unveiling of the refurbished Gateshead tower underscore the blend of heritage preservation and modern engineering. The bridge’s transformation is a testament to regional pride, reflecting the dedication of everyone involved. Councillor Dr. Juna Staithan, Newcastle City Council’s cabinet member for Climate Change and Transport, expressed the collective enthusiasm: “Restoring this icon to its former glory is a proud moment for everyone involved. This project preserves not only the structure but the spirit of Newcastle itself.” With completion slated for 2028, the Tyne Bridge restoration represents a harmonious blend of past and present, ensuring this architectural marvel continues to inspire and connect for generations to come.

Protecting the Public During Scaffolding Works

Safety must be non-negotiable in scaffolding projects. While scaffolding structures are essential for construction and maintenance work, they can pose risks to the public. Billy Jones, Millcroft’s Managing Director, provides an in-depth look at the complex considerations involved in designing scaffolding for use in public places and explains how Millcroft ensures the safety of workers, pedestrians and passersby during its wide range of projects. No matter what the project is, the design and installation of scaffolding structures must be carefully managed to reduce the risk to public safety. Hazards such as falling objects, debris, dust, and restricted access must all be considered. The best way to address these risks is through a meticulous and well-thought-out approach that prioritises safety at every stage of the project. 

The foundation of public safety: risk assessments

Every project should begin with a thorough risk assessment. Before designing and erecting any scaffolding, we conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify potential threats to the public. This isn’t a box-ticking exercise, it involves evaluating every aspect of the project site and identifying areas where the public might be affected by the scaffolding during our operations.  High-traffic areas, building entrances, pavements and shared spaces, are assessed so that we can develop a strategy to eliminate or mitigate the risks.  But we don’t stop there. Our risk assessments go beyond the immediate hazards. Construction sites are ever-changing environments so our risk assessments evolve alongside the project, allowing us to be agile and adapt to changing site conditions.

Practical measures: barriers, public demarcation and signage

Physical barriers effectively separate the public from hazards by preventing them from entering an active work area. Sturdy fencing, hoardings and demarcation systems help create safe zones, reducing the risk of accidents. Prominent warning signs further enhance safety by directing pedestrians away from hazards and guiding them through alternative routes if needed. Installing barriers and signage isn’t just about compliance with regulations—it’s about instilling confidence. The public should feel reassured when walking past a scaffolding project, knowing that every precaution has been taken to ensure their safety.

Protecting against falling objects

Debris and falling objects pose a significant risk to public safety during scaffolding operations. Even a small piece of material falling from height can have serious consequences. Our protective systems go beyond basic measures. Millcroft often employs advanced protective systems like debris netting and cantilevered fans to catch any materials that may drop from the work area and shield pedestrians and vehicles below. For example, we used a cantilevered gallows bracket detail with bridging elements during a repair project involving Transport for London (TfL) properties above Baker Street Station. This eliminated the need to ground any scaffold and resulted in zero public disruption while we installed the scaffolding system.

Maintaining safe public access

Our projects are often in bustling urban environments where we must maintain accessibility while construction work is underway.  Incorporating dedicated walkways and protective gantries into the scaffold designs provides safe pedestrian routes while minimising disruption. At Blashford Tower, we constructed a dedicated walkway to maintain safe access to the adjacent medical centre during essential recladding and fire safety works. Similarly, at Wells House on Oxford Street, we used a fully-wrapped scaffold to enclose the work area and bridged design to ensure public access to the neighbouring properties without compromising on safety or operational efficiency. 

Routine inspections and immediate maintenance

Our obligation to public safety doesn’t end when the scaffold structure has been installed. Regular monitoring, and rapid responses to any issue, secures the ongoing safety of both workers and the public. A scaffolding structure must be inspected and maintained regularly to ensure its ongoing integrity. Our teams conduct routine inspections of the structure, particularly after adverse weather conditions or reports of debris falling onto the structure. This involves thorough checks to confirm barriers, signs, and safety features are intact and capable of withstanding changing conditions and assessing any damage caused by impact.  Any required repairs, such as to components or impact absorption layers, are carried out promptly to prevent potential hazards affecting public safety. 

Putting our safety protocols into practice

The Euston Station Project Public safety considerations took centre stage during HS2 enabling works at Euston Station for a long term client Skanska , where we installed containment screens spanning the length of three platforms to separate public areas from active construction zones. The 8m high screens, spanning 230m, were clad with modular acoustic panels designed to withstand high volume crowd loadings. The encapsulation screens incorporated Layher’s solid scaffold containment panels, which provided robust safety barriers while reducing noise pollution and creating a containment screen that eliminated all construction dust from entering the public areas of the station and platforms. The screens, which at the time were the largest of their kind in Europe, were secured at their head to the stations roof primary and secondary steel beams and using kentledge at base level to avoid penetrative fixings into the platform . Westgate Apartments One of our recent challenging yet successful projects was at Westgate Apartments near London’s Excel Arena, where public safety was paramount. Here, we were called in for an emergency response after glass balustrades fell from the upper floors of the 11 storey building down to ground level, posing an immediate threat to public safety. To protect pedestrians, we collaborated closely with the client’s appointed structural engineer to design a custom, multi-tiered scaffolding solution. The team installed two decks, one front elevation and one rear elevation. In addition, we constructed an emergency response deck for the consultation stage, where we agreed on the deck’s impact loading requirement.  The deck was retrofitted to the specifications and built for the rear elevation deck. We recommended full-height independent scaffold access in one narrow part of the building beside a busy road as a cost-effective alternative to high-load protection decks. This solution overcame the possibility of falling debris and provided the access required for the project’s next stage. By using 3D visualisation, we’ve enabled the client to remotely inspect the design via a virtual walkthrough, giving them confidence in the system’s ability to protect the public. 

Innovation in scaffolding design

The Westgate Apartments and Euston Station project exemplify how we put innovation at the heart of our public safety strategy.  Whether integrating 3D design tools or adopting innovative solutions such as Layher’s containment panel at Euston Station (to ensure no single-use plastic material was used) we’re constantly looking for ways to enhance our scaffolding solutions. Our designs protect the public and reflect our commitment to sustainability and efficiency. 

Commitment to public safety 

Protecting the public must be a core part of any scaffolding project. At Millcroft, we combine rigorous assessments, advanced design and the skills of our experienced teams to deliver scaffolding solutions that prioritise safety above all else. Whether busy city centre developments or major infrastructure works, by integrating modern practices and traditional expertise, we don’t just build scaffolding – we create safe environments that allow construction works to continue without compromising public wellbeing. 

ScaffEx24: A Milestone for the Scaffolding Industry

Belfast’s ICC welcomed over 500 visitors for ScaffEx24, Europe’s first dedicated scaffolding conference and exhibition, setting a new benchmark for industry events. On November 29, Belfast cemented its status as a hub of innovation and collaboration within the scaffolding profession, hosting the highly anticipated ScaffEx24. Organised by the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC), this groundbreaking event brought together industry leaders, innovators, and professionals from across the globe. ScaffEx24 not only marked a historic first for the European scaffolding industry but also set the tone for its future, with more than 30 exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge solutions and sharing invaluable insights. The event blended a bustling exhibition floor, compelling conference sessions, and the prestigious NASC Ball and Scaffolding Excellence Awards—making it an unmissable occasion for anyone invested in the sector.

Innovation and Opportunity Take Center Stage

From the moment doors opened, the energy in the ICC Belfast was palpable. Delegates packed the 320-seat conference room, where discussions revolved around key themes of innovation, opportunity, education, and buyer needs. Presentations from prominent industry figures like Wayne Connolly, NASC President, and Lee Rowswell of GKR Scaffolding struck a chord, offering success stories and thought-provoking perspectives. Meanwhile, Julio Black of At-Pac and Dr. Yasuo Toyosawa from Japan captivated the audience with insights into transformative technologies, such as biomechanical suits and advancements in structural training. Barry Neilson, OBE of CITBNI, alongside Fulcrum Co-founder David Abraham, highlighted the future of training and education, including the announcement of new CISRS programs launching in 2025.

Groundbreaking Announcements

ScaffEx24 provided the perfect stage for NASC to unveil two significant initiatives poised to shape the industry: TG30 Guidance Suite: Hailed as the “TG20 for system scaffolding,” TG30 simplifies compliance, offering tools like a digital eGuide and operational guidance that promise to revolutionise safety and efficiency. Common Assessment Standard (CAS): An optional addition to the NASC audit, CAS aims to streamline prequalification processes for contractors, reflecting the industry’s growing focus on accountability. “These announcements are not just incremental changes—they’re transformative,” said Clive Dickin, NASC CEO. “The industry is stepping into a new era, and ScaffEx is the catalyst.”

Global Recognition and Engagement

Attendees hailed from as far as Japan, New Zealand, Malaysia, and the Caribbean, underscoring the global appeal of ScaffEx24. International representatives were eager to learn from the UK’s world-renowned health and safety standards and explore the innovations on display. On the exhibition floor, exhibitors reported brisk engagement, with many signing up on the spot for next year’s expanded ScaffEx25, set to take place at Manchester Central in September 2025.

A Night to Remember

The day’s activities culminated in the NASC Ball and Scaffolding Excellence Awards, where over 700 guests celebrated the industry’s finest. Hosted by actor James Nesbitt alongside Mike Tindall and Denise van Outen, the evening was a glamorous affair filled with music, laughter, and recognition of outstanding achievements across nine award categories. Des Moore, a consultant and long-time contributor to ScaffMag, summed up the sentiment: “ScaffEx24 has showcased the progress and potential of our industry. It’s events like these that inspire innovation and collaboration.”

Looking Ahead

As the scaffolding sector embraces TG30 and CAS, ScaffEx24 has proven itself more than just an event—it’s a platform for progress. With attendees and exhibitors already looking forward to ScaffEx25, the foundations have been laid for an even bigger and better future. “ScaffEx has reignited belief in the power of unity and innovation,” said James McMillan, H&S Advisor at APT Scaffolding Ltd. “This event is more than a milestone; it’s the start of something extraordinary.” ScaffEx25 is set to build on this momentum, promising expanded opportunities, deeper engagement, and continued celebration of the scaffolding industry’s remarkable achievements.

Experienced Industry Experts Join NASC Senior Team

The National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has appointed two highly regarded industry professionals to senior roles, as the organisation bolsters its leadership team during a period of growth and change. Paul Napper has joined as Head of Training and Education, while Mark Collinson takes up the position of Head of Technical. Both bring decades of expertise to NASC, which represents the UK scaffolding and access industry. Clive Dickin, NASC Chief Executive, welcomed the appointments, describing them as crucial additions to the senior team. He said: “We’re absolutely delighted with these two latest additions to the senior leadership team at NASC. Both Paul and Mark bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the organisation and will play a critical role as we enter what promises to be an exciting period of development for the industry and for NASC.” Paul Napper arrives with a strong background in professional development, having previously held roles at the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and Lloyds Maritime Academy. His career has been dedicated to fostering skills and helping individuals progress in their careers. He also serves as a trustee for the Unicorn Preservation Society and the Countryside Regeneration Trust, reflecting his broader commitment to education and mentorship. Speaking about his new role, Paul said: “I am incredibly excited to join NASC and contribute to the ongoing training and education in the industry. Lifelong learning is essential for both individual success and the growth of any sector, and I look forward to working with NASC members to enhance opportunities for training, upskilling, and professional excellence.” Mr Dickin highlighted the importance of Paul’s appointment in aligning NASC’s training work more closely with the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS).  “Paul will be central to the work to bring NASC and CISRS into closer alignment as we look to maximise the impact both have on the industry and the economy.” Mark Collinson steps into his new role after serving as Europe Commercial SHEQ Director at Brand Access Solutions, previously known as Lyndon SGB. With 38 years of experience in the scaffolding and access industry – including 13 in health and safety – Mark is a familiar figure to many, having served on NASC’s Safety Committee. Mark said: “Having been a long-standing contributor to NASC through its Safety Committee, I am delighted to be joining as the new Head of Technical at what is a fascinating time for the organisation and the industry. NASC’s technical guidance sits at the heart of the industry’s efforts to reduce risk and deliver safer and better scaffolding and access solutions.” His predecessor, Steve Kearney, is stepping back from the management side of the technical department to focus on writing industry standards and enhancing NASC’s health and safety guidance. Mr Kearney said he wanted to “spend more time doing actual work and less time in management meetings”.
“A stronger and better-resourced technical team at NASC is not only good for our members but also good for the whole industry.”
Clive Dickin praised the technical team’s development, adding: “We’re delighted to be gaining all the strengths and depth of experience that Mark brings from almost 40 years in the industry, without losing the unique insights and talents Steve brings. A stronger and better-resourced technical team at NASC is not only good for our members but also good for the whole industry.” The appointments come as NASC prepares to navigate an increasingly dynamic period for the scaffolding and access sector, with both training standards and technical guidance at the forefront of the organisation’s priorities.

ScaffChamp 2025 Final Line-Up Revealed Amid Record Interest

The highly anticipated international scaffolding championship, ScaffChamp 2025, has confirmed its full roster of 20 teams, marking a significant milestone for the event. Taking place in Vilnius, Lithuania, June 5th – 7th, ScaffChamp is the ultimate test of skill and teamwork for scaffolding professionals, challenging competitors in speed, precision, and safety standards. The event has become a key industry showcase, bringing together the best scaffolders worldwide to compete in various technical challenges. Despite the registration window remaining open for six weeks, most applications were submitted within the first few days, ScaffChamp organisers told Scaffmag. However, confirming the final teams has proved a more prolonged process. Organisers received an overwhelming 71 applications, though not all were able to proceed. Oleg Abramovas, Head of ScaffChamp Operations, said: “We’re thrilled to have secured 20 strong teams for this year’s championship. While some teams had to withdraw, many have already expressed their intent to participate in 2026. To assist them, we will announce the date for ScaffChamp 2026 immediately after this year’s event, giving potential competitors more than a year to prepare.”

Expanding Global Representation

ScaffChamp 2025 will see representation from a diverse range of countries, with four new regions joining the competition for the first time: the USA, France, Italy, and Germany. Other returning nations include Poland, Norway, Ireland, Lithuania, Hungary, Sweden, Slovakia, Romania, Serbia, Turkey, and Mongolia. Turkey’s participation is particularly noteworthy, as their team will be composed of members from five different companies. Additionally, Poland and Hungary will conduct local qualifying rounds to determine their representatives.

UK Absence, But Future Hopes Remain

UK’s Team, Star Scaffolding at ScaffChamp 2024
Despite the global expansion, the UK will not be fielding a team in this year’s championship. However, organisers are optimistic that at least one British team will compete in 2026. “We were close to having a team from the UK this year, and we expect to see representation next time,” Abramovas added The competition has also drawn interest from scaffolding teams in Australia and South Africa, though neither will be present this year. With plans to announce the 2026 championship date well in advance, organisers hope to secure even broader international participation in the future. More updates to follow..

Anton Scaffolding Expands with New Hire & Sales Division

Anton Scaffolding Ltd has expanded its operations with the launch of a new Hire & Sales division, further strengthening its presence in the scaffolding industry. The Tamworth-based company, which has seen rapid growth over the past decade, has capitalised on its recent move to a larger yard to facilitate this latest development. The expansion aims to address a key challenge faced by local scaffolding firms—access to materials. Many businesses in the area have previously had to travel long distances or incur substantial transport costs to source scaffolding components. Anton Scaffolding’s Managing Director and Owner, Tom Pawliw, highlighted the increasing demand for such services. “Over the years, we have often received enquiries about scaffolding components and consumables. These enquiries became more frequent, and after speaking to other local firms, we recognised an opportunity to supply a range of scaffolding items from our yard in Tamworth,” he said. “We have a great central location with many scaffolding companies and construction projects around us.” Anton Scaffolding Ltd has expanded its operations with the launch of a new Hire & Sales division, further strengthening its presence in the scaffolding industry. The Hire & Sales division officially launched in January and has quickly gained traction, with many local businesses benefiting from the wide variety of stock now available on-site. To lead this new venture, Anton Scaffolding appointed Zak Singers as Hire and Sales Manager. With over 25 years of experience at Lyndon SGB, Singers brings extensive knowledge and expertise to the role. The company’s latest move reinforces its commitment to growth and industry support, providing a more accessible solution for scaffolding firms in the region.

Scaffolding Industry Welcomes Apprenticeship Reforms

The UK’s scaffolding sector has welcomed major changes to apprenticeship rules, which are expected to create up to 10,000 more training opportunities each year. The government’s decision to ease entry requirements and reduce apprenticeship durations has been described as a “huge boost” for the industry, helping to address the ongoing skills shortage. The reforms, announced today by the Department for Education, remove the requirement for apprentices over the age of 19 to complete a Level 2 English and maths qualification—equivalent to a GCSE—to pass their training. Previously, this requirement deterred many would-be apprentices from entering the sector, exacerbating labour shortages in scaffolding and other key trades. Additionally, the minimum duration of an apprenticeship will be reduced from 12 months to eight, allowing businesses to train and qualify workers more quickly. The changes are part of a broader push to boost economic growth by removing red tape and giving employers more control over workforce development.

NASC Backs Reform as “Major Catalyst for Growth”

The National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has been a strong advocate for reform and has welcomed the government’s decision to remove bureaucratic hurdles. The organisation has long argued that the previous rules unfairly restricted entry into the scaffolding profession, making it harder to recruit and train new talent.
NASC CEO Clive Dickin
NASC CEO Clive Dickin hailed the announcement as a turning point for the industry: “I am really pleased with today’s announcement on the relaxing of previously strict requirements for Maths and English qualifications. These have prevented many potential candidates from starting an apprenticeship in our sector. “Over the last year, I have written several times to various senior politicians on behalf of NASC members and CISRS Centres asking for exactly this kind of change. We’re in favour of anything that reduces red tape. Cutting the bureaucracy around apprenticeships could be a major growth catalyst and help the sector recruit many young talent that had previously been put off. “This could be a huge boost for the scaffolding and access sector. Longer-term, we are keen to get more funding into training and education initiatives to give a much-needed boost to our home-grown scaffolding talent. Projects such as NASC’s collaboration with City & Guilds Training on Scaffolding Skills Bootcamps are an excellent example of the industry’s desire to upskill and train more talent.”

A Step Forward for Construction Training

The reforms come at a critical time for the construction sector, which has struggled with a shortage of skilled workers. By removing barriers to entry, the government hopes to attract more apprentices into industries where the demand for labour is high. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said the changes were designed to respond to the needs of businesses: “Growing the economy and opportunity for all are fundamental missions of our Plan for Change, and we are determined to support apprentices. Businesses have been calling out for change to the apprenticeship system, and these reforms show that we are listening. Our new offer of shorter apprenticeships and less red tape strikes the right balance between speed and quality.” The Federation of Small Businesses has also welcomed the move, highlighting that greater flexibility will help companies, particularly SMEs, to fill skills gaps more efficiently.

Looking Ahead

With the scaffolding industry facing long-term challenges in recruitment and retention, the NASC and other trade bodies will be closely monitoring the impact of these reforms. Many hope that by making apprenticeships more accessible and reducing the time needed to qualify, the industry will be able to attract and train the next generation of scaffolders more effectively. More details on the rollout of these changes are expected in the coming months.

Breaking Down Barriers: Tim Balcon on Apprenticeships, Diversity, and the Skills Crisis

As the scaffolding and construction industries face a critical skills shortage, apprenticeships and workforce development remain at the forefront of industry discussions. Scaffmag spoke to Tim Balcon on apprenticeships, diversity and the skills crisis. 

I had the privilege of speaking with Tim Balcon, Chief Executive of the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), to gain insights into the initiatives and strategies being employed to address these pressing challenges.

Apprenticeships: Building the Talent Pipeline

When it comes to apprenticeships, the CITB is pulling out all the stops to attract new talent into scaffolding and the broader construction industry. As Tim Balcon explains, “We’re investing in a range of initiatives to make careers in construction accessible and appealing. Our Go Construct careers portal is a prime example—it provides a comprehensive resource for individuals exploring opportunities in scaffolding and other sub-sectors.” Beyond guidance, CITB offers robust financial support to employers. “Scaffolding businesses hiring apprentices can access a £2,500 annual grant per apprentice, plus a £3,500 achievement grant upon completion,” Balcon shares. “For those pursuing the CISRS route, we fund training stages like COTS, Part 1, Part 2, and NVQ qualifications.” Despite these efforts, the scaffolding sector faces unique challenges, including what Balcon refers to as a “hidden jobs market,” where many roles go unadvertised. He believes improving the visibility of these opportunities could significantly bolster recruitment. Highlighting the scale of CITB’s commitment, Balcon notes, “Between April 2023 and March 2025, we’re investing nearly £150 million into apprenticeship grants. Since 2020, we’ve awarded over 72,000 grants, supporting employers and learners alike. Small and medium enterprises, which account for over two-thirds of construction apprenticeship starts, are particularly benefiting from these programs.” Balcon also acknowledges the need to tackle retention issues. “Currently, 60% of further education learners in construction do not end up in the industry. We need to address this by promoting the clear career benefits and providing effective recruitment and training support.”
Tim Balcon was one of the keynote speakers at last November's ScaffEx24 conference in Belfast
Tim Balcon was one of the keynote speakers at last November’s ScaffEx24 conference in Belfast

The Skills Crisis: A Collaborative Approach

The construction industry will require over 250,000 additional workers by 2028 to meet growing demand. Balcon describes this as a significant challenge but remains optimistic. “CITB has partnered with the Government and the National House Building Council (NHBC) to launch Homebuilding Skills Hubs. These hubs will deliver fast-track apprenticeships and training, enabling us to produce 5,000 new homebuilding apprenticeship starts annually once fully operational.” The initiative, which will see 32 hubs established by 2027, is part of a £140 million investment by CITB and NHBC. “These hubs are a game-changer,” Balcon explains. “They’ll flatten peaks in demand for skills and equip individuals to be productive on-site in record time.” Digital transformation is another critical area. “Technology is key to the future of scaffolding and construction,” Balcon states. “Our Industry Impact Fund provides scaffolding businesses with the financial resources to adopt digital tools that enhance productivity and safety.”

Overcoming Challenges and Seizing Opportunities

Balcon outlines three core funding strategies designed to support scaffolding businesses grappling with rising training costs:
  1. Grants: Financial support for completing construction-specific training, often covering the full cost.
  2. Skills and Training Fund: Tailored allowances for small businesses, providing up to £5,000 upfront to cover eligible training expenses.
  3. Employer Networks: Regional CITB advisors source and subsidise training on behalf of employers, covering up to 70% of costs.
“CITB is also collaborating with the Department for Education’s Bootcamps to adapt offerings like HGV driver training,” Balcon adds. “This ensures that even non-construction-specific skills, crucial to scaffolding operations, are accessible.” Looking ahead, Balcon emphasises CITB’s commitment to diversity and leadership development. “We’re investing £267 million to make construction a more attractive career choice for future generations. Initiatives like the Leadership and Management Commission will provide over 10,500 courses to upskill frontline managers and supervisors.”

A Vision for the Future

Balcon concludes with an optimistic outlook for the industry. “Through apprenticeships, digital innovation, and collaboration, we’re not just addressing today’s challenges but preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities. Scaffolding businesses that embrace these resources will be well-positioned for growth.” The scaffolding industry, like construction as a whole, stands at a pivotal moment. With the CITB’s support, employers have the tools and funding to build a skilled, sustainable workforce that can meet the challenges of the future. For more information on CITB initiatives, visit CITB’s website or contact your local CITB advisor.

Scaffolder Set for 230-Mile Challenge to Raise Awareness for Men’s Mental Health

A scaffolder from Yorkshire is preparing to take on a gruelling 230-mile trek across England to raise money for men’s mental health charity, Andy’s Man Club. Harry Ingham, a Part 2 scaffolder with Burflex Scaffolding Ltd, will be running and walking with a 23kg backpack as he embarks on an epic journey. Setting off from Southport on the west coast on 22 March, he aims to reach Hornsea on the east coast in just eight days. His journey along the Trans Pennine Trail will see him cover more than a marathon a day in a bid to highlight the issue of male suicide and mental health struggles, particularly within the construction industry. The challenge is deeply personal for Ingham, who has battled his own mental health issues. A former soldier, he served three and a half years in the military before being medically discharged. In the years that followed, he faced post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the breakdown of family relationships, and a gambling addiction – struggles that led him to the brink of suicide.
Scaffolder, Harry Ingham
He spoke about his darkest moment to Scaffmag: “A little over two and a half years ago, I hit rock bottom. I had all the intentions of ending it. I didn’t want to leave the house, see friends or family, and even getting up for work felt like a chore. But thanks to a great circle of friends, my little family, my son, and Andy’s Man Club, I found support when I needed it the most.” Andy’s Man Club is a peer support group that encourages men to open up about their mental health, offering a safe space to talk without fear of judgment. The charity has been instrumental in Ingham’s recovery, and he is now determined to prove that “no matter how low you get, you can bounce back and achieve big things with the right guidance.” According to statistics, 12 men in the UK take their own lives every day—two of whom work in construction. “There’s a stigma around men and mental health. People think we don’t talk or let our emotions out, but that needs to change,” he added. Ingham’s challenge will take him through key locations, including Liverpool, Warrington, Stockport, Barnsley, Doncaster, Selby, Hull, and finally, Hornsea. He encourages people to join him for parts of the walk and even celebrates with him at the finish line. With weeks to go before he sets off, he is calling for donations to support the cause. To contribute, visit his JustGiving page: Harry’s Fundraising Page.

HAKI Reports Strong Growth Amid Challenging Market Conditions

Swedish safety solutions provider HAKI Safety has reported an 8% increase in net sales for the fourth quarter of 2024, reaching £21.6 million (up from £20.1 million in Q4 2023). The company attributed the growth to strong organic performance, which saw an 11% rise, despite headwinds from exchange rate fluctuations and divestments. In a statement, Sverker Lindberg, President and CEO of HAKI Safety, described the quarter as a “good end to the year with continued growth in a soft market.” The company’s adjusted EBITA (earnings before interest, taxes, and amortisation) also saw a significant boost, rising 32% to £1.85 million, up from £1.41 million in the same period last year.

Key Financial Highlights for Q4 2024

  • Net sales: £21.6 million (+8% year-on-year).
  • Adjusted EBITA: £1.85 million (+32%).
  • Operating profit: £1.48 million (flat compared to Q4 2023).
  • Net result after tax: £0.74 million (up from £0.52 million in Q4 2023).
  • Earnings per share (before dilution): £0.027 (up from £0.019).
The company’s cash flow from operating activities, however, declined sharply to £1.04 million, compared to £5.25 million in the same period last year. This was attributed to ongoing acquisition activities and market challenges.

Full-Year Performance

For 2024, HAKI Safety reported a 12% decline in net sales to £77.7 million, down from £87.9 million in 2023. Organic sales fell by 5%, while acquisitions and divestments contributed to a further 7% decline. Adjusted EBITA for the year stood at £5.70 million, down from £7.03 million in 2023, reflecting the softer market conditions. Despite the annual decline, the company highlighted its resilience in a challenging environment, with a gross margin improvement to 35.8% (up from 33.4% in 2023).

Strategic Moves and Acquisitions

HAKI Safety continued its expansion strategy during the quarter, acquiring Semmco Group on 29 October 2024. Semmco, which has an annual turnover of approximately £7.4 million, is expected to bolster HAKI’s market position in the safety solutions sector. Following the close of the reporting period, the company announced on 30 January 2025 that it had signed an agreement to acquire Trimtec. The Board also revealed that it is considering a new issue of shares to support its growth ambitions. Additionally, a strategic review has been initiated for Landqvist Mekaniska Verkstad, one of HAKI’s remaining portfolio companies.